The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has issued a stern call for the immediate suspension of the controversial Tax Reform Bill currently being proposed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In a strongly worded press statement released on Saturday, the Forum expressed deep concern over the potential negative impact of the bill on the Nigerian economy, particularly its citizens.
The NEF, through its Management Board Chairman, Al-Amin Daggash, sharply criticized the government’s failure to engage with experts and key stakeholders before drafting the bill. “Successful reforms,” Daggash emphasized, “are anchored on certain key principles of the public policy-making process, which include extensive pre-reform engagements with experts and critical stakeholders to secure their buy-in.”
The Forum argued that the absence of such crucial consultations renders the current bill deeply flawed and potentially detrimental to the nation’s economic well-being.
Economic Concerns Fuel Opposition
The NEF’s opposition to the bill stems from a deep-seated belief that it is strategically designed to cripple the Nigerian economy. The Forum warned that the proposed reforms, in their current form, could have severe consequences for businesses and individuals alike, potentially stifling economic growth and exacerbating existing social inequalities.
Call for Transparency and Public Engagement
Recognizing the importance of public awareness and understanding, the NEF urged President Tinubu to implement a comprehensive media and communication strategy. Daggash insisted that the strategy must clearly articulate the full scope of the proposed reforms and ensure the public is adequately informed and engaged.
“The government must establish a well-defined media and communication strategy to clearly articulate the full scope of the reforms and ensure public awareness and enlightenment on a nationwide scale,” he stated.
Against Global Best Practices
The Forum unequivocally stated that the proposed Tax Reform Bills blatantly disregard globally recognized best practices in public policy-making. By failing to adhere to these principles, the government risks undermining public trust and jeopardizing the successful implementation of any meaningful economic reforms.
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Dialogue with the Presidency
Despite its strong opposition to the bill in its current form, the NEF expressed its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with President Tinubu. The Forum emphasized the need for open and honest discussions to address the concerns raised by the proposed reforms and explore alternative solutions that better serve the interests of the Nigerian people.
If You Ask Me
The NEF’s intervention highlights the growing unease among key stakeholders regarding the government’s approach to economic reform. The Forum’s call for a suspension of the Tax Reform Bill and its emphasis on the need for expert consultation and public engagement serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of inclusive and transparent governance in a democratic society.
